Joyful Sukkot Greetings from the Gulf of America

by Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida

As the sun rises over the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico, a unique kind of joy fills the air in Southwest Florida. Palm branches sway in the warm breeze, and the sweet scent of citrus and etrogim mix with the salty sea air. It’s Sukkot a time of unity, joy, and divine shelter and here in the heart of the Gulf of America, the celebration is alive and thriving.

Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz, together with Menachem and Sruli Silver, extend heartfelt Sukkot greetings on behalf of Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida. “Sukkot is a time when we leave our permanent homes to dwell in temporary huts, reminding us of G-d’s constant protection and our shared journey as a people,” says Rabbi Minkowicz. “It’s about joy, trust, and connection with G-d and with each other.”

In communities large and small across Florida’s Gulf Coast, sukkahs have been built with love, decorated by children and families, and filled with songs, stories, and shared meals. Whether it’s a sukkah at home, at the Chabad House, or a mobile sukkah on wheels, the message is the same: every Jew has a place, and every mitzvah makes a difference.

Menachem and Sruli Silver, known for their spirited involvement in local outreach and youth programs, are helping bring the joy of the festival to every corner of the region. “We want people to feel the beauty of Sukkot,” says Menachem. “Even if someone just walks by and sees the sukkah, or shakes the lulav and etrog for the first time it’s a spark that lights something eternal.”

From Naples to Fort Myers, from beachfront sukkahs to joyous holiday meals, the Gulf of America is resonating with the timeless joy of this special festival.

As the holiday continues, Rabbi Minkowicz and the Chabad family invite everyone to join in the celebrations whether for a meal in the sukkah, the waving of the Four Kinds, or just a warm holiday greeting.

Chag Sameach! May this Sukkot bring joy, unity, and divine blessing to all.